On September 11, 2013, at approximately 5:30 a.m. the Ville Platte Police Department was involved in a pursuit of a 14 year old black male juvenile who fled from officers on a stolen ATV according to a spokesman for Ville Platte Police Chief Neal Lartigue. After pursuing the juvenile throughout the city, the pursuit ended when the juvenile wrecked the ATV. The Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office assisted in the apprehension of the juvenile. The juvenile was transported to the Ville Platte Police Department where he was charged with 12 counts of disobeying a stop sign, reckless operation of a vehicle, resisting an officer, 4 counts of flight from an officer, riding an ATV on roadway, possession of a stolen item and driving the wrong way on a one way.

At approximately 1:20 p.m. the Ville Platte Police Department received a complaint of a break in and property damage at a local business on Dardeau Street. Upon viewing video surveillance it was learned that the same juvenile had entered the business earlier that morning and caused damage to 5 ATV’s in a fenced in area. The juvenile was charged with simple burglary, 5 counts of attempted theft and 5 counts of criminal damage to property. The total amount of damages has not been determined at this time but is so far over $2,000.00.

The juvenile was booked on charges from both incidents and then transported to the Evangeline Parish Sheriff’s Office where he faces a charge of theft and other possible charges. After paperwork was completed at both agencies the juvenile was released to a guardian until the court date.

As a reminder, there is an ongoing homicide investigation of Joseph John. Chief Neal Lartigue and Detectives continue to reach out to the community to help remove this violent criminal from the streets of our city. If you have any information at all you are asked to call, even if the information may seem insignificant or something small. Working together the streets can be safer for everyone. To call in with tips on this case call 363-1313. Your call will remain anonymous.

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The Louisiana Swamp Pop Museum operated by the City of Ville Platte is open to the public every Friday and Saturday from 10:00am to 3:00pm. Come view the amazing artifacts, photos, records, Wall of Fame and hear the music. Admission charge is $3 adults, $2 seniors and $1 for children under 12. The museum is located on Northwest Railroad Avenue.